Seven killed, as many injured as wall collapses in Bengaluru hailstorm
Tragedy strikes when pedestrians and vendors seek shelter; IMD forecasts more rain for the city
Even though Bengaluru received a much-needed relief from scorching heat on Wednesday (April 29) evening when a heavy hailstorm lashed it, seven lives were lost when the compound wall of a hospital in the city collapsed. The deceased included some footpath vendors. The tragedy occurred when some people, including pedestrians, took shelter under a tarpaulin due to heavy rain, when the wall adjacent to which they were standing crumbled. Seven people were also injured.
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Bystanders rushed to their rescue initially and rescued some from the debris. But some of those trapped died on the spot. The injured were rushed to the same hospital. Civic officials went to the spot and a bulldozer was used to remove the debris.
Hailstorm, accompanied by thundering and lightning, were reported from several areas of the city, including Shanthinagar, Jayanagar, Majestic, Richmond Circle, Corporation and MG Road.
Trees uprooted in many parts
In many areas, tree branches broke due to the storm, blocking roads and disrupting traffic. Roads were also inundated in many parts due to the downpour. The Seshadripuram-Malleshwaram road was closed after some trees were uprooted in the storm.
Reports of trees falling were also reported from Peenya, Kalyana Nagar, Goragunte Palya, Sivananda Circle and Nelamangala. A tree branch fell near the residence of Bengaluru Police Commissioner. In Goragunte Palya, a parked car was damaged after a tree fell on it. Fortunately, nobody was inside the vehicle.
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Rain was also reported from Devenahalli and Kempegowda International Airport, where some flights were delayed.
The India Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert in North and East Bengaluru, while a yellow alert has been issued in the rest of the parts. It also made a forecast for heavy rain in the city over the next few days.